Hiroshima, a city often associated with its tragic past, is today a dynamic and welcoming metropolis rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Beyond its memorial, Hiroshima offers a multitude of captivating activities for all tastes.
Here are the top 7 activities for those who don’t have many days to spend in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-see in Hiroshima. It’s often the first thing you see in photos when talking about Hiroshima. This park is a poignant tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb dropped in 1945.
At its heart is the famous A-Bomb Dome, a structure left in ruins to remind everyone of the devastation caused by war.
On the panels explaining the dome, I was surprised to see that it was a controversial topic among Hiroshima residents. Some wanted to keep it as a memory, while others wanted to destroy it due to the painful reminders. Today, the dome is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. The question is no longer up for debate.
The park also houses the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which presents detailed exhibits on the history of the attack and its consequences. It’s a visit that deeply moved me, and I talk more about it in this article >>
Hiroshima castle
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is another major attraction. Reconstructed after its destruction during World War II, the castle now houses a fascinating museum on Hiroshima’s history before the Meiji era.
Visitors can also climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
The park surrounding the castle is a perfect place for a peaceful walk, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Miyajima island
A short ferry ride from Hiroshima is Miyajima Island, famous for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii gate, one of the most iconic images of Japan.
Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island offers picturesque hikes, historic temples, and the chance to encounter free-roaming deer.
I highly recommend climbing to the top of Mount Misen for spectacular views.
Shukkei-en garden
Shukkeien Garden is clearly an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Hiroshima, and I loved it.
Created in the early 17th century, this traditional Japanese garden is the ideal place to relax. Its winding paths, ponds lined with aquatic plants, and charming bridges offer a perfect setting for a relaxing stroll.
And it’s a rather special garden. You can find the details in this article >>
Mitaki-dera temple
Mitaki-dera is a Buddhist temple located in a peaceful forest a few kilometers from downtown Hiroshima. Known for its beautiful gardens and three waterfalls, this temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
The path to the temple is dotted with Buddha statues and stone lanterns, creating an enchanting setting. In autumn, the site transforms into a spectacle of vibrant colors thanks to the bright red maple leaves.
A traditional Japanese Kagura performance
Kagura is a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines dance, music, and drama. In Hiroshima, you can attend Kagura performances every Wednesday night at the Hiroshima Prefectural Citizen’s Culture Center.
These performances are a true immersion into Japanese culture and traditions, offering an impressive visual and auditory experience with elaborate costumes and energetic performances.
The show features mythological and folklore stories, capturing the essence of Japanese heritage.
Hondori District
For those who love shopping and gastronomy, Hondori District is a must. This pedestrian shopping street is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
You can find everything from traditional souvenirs to the latest Japanese fashion trends. Hondori is also the ideal place to sample local specialties, such as Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki, a delicious pancake topped with vegetables, meat, or seafood.
At one end, you will find Don Quijote, a gigantic store spread over four floors. This whole area is covered, which helps keep you cool during a heatwave or protected from the rain.
Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki
A trip to Hiroshima wouldn’t be complete without tasting okonomiyaki, a local specialty.
This “pancake” is prepared with a variety of ingredients like cabbage, noodles, meat, or seafood, and cooked on a hot plate.
Beyond the taste, it’s the experience that’s fun. You sit at the counter, and they prepare the okonomiyaki right in front of you on a hot plate, then you eat it armed with your spatula.
Be careful, not all restaurants offer this immersive preparation experience in front of you, so choose wisely.
Hiroshima surprised me; I wouldn’t have believed there would be so many things to visit and so many emotions to handle during my explorations.
It’s really a city I recommend including in your Japan itinerary.
This city offers much more than its poignant history. From moving memorials to beautiful gardens and art museums, to excursions on picturesque islands and unique culinary experiences, Hiroshima has something to offer every visitor.
